By Jennifer Russo

For the first time in our newspaper’s history, the cost of postage has surpassed the cost of printing. On average, mailing services have increased in price by over 7% in the last couple of years. While the USPS may require this operationally, it does underscore the growing financial challenges facing local journalism today. Paper, ink, fuel, and distribution costs have all risen sharply in the past year, and while we’ve absorbed those increases for as long as we could, we now find ourselves at a turning point – and we need your help.

Despite these challenges, one thing hasn’t changed: our commitment to providing free, local news that keeps our communities informed and connected. Local journalism is not just about headlines — it’s about people. It’s about the high school team’s championship win, the opening of a new family business, the celebration of a lifelong volunteer, the coverage of town meetings, and ensuring that every story is told.

When you open your community newspaper, you read about your neighbors, your schools, and the heartbeat of your area. You’re seeing your community reflected in print - its triumphs, challenges, and spirit. Local news brings people together, fosters accountability, and preserves the stories that make each town unique. Without it, those small but powerful connections risk being lost.

Advertising revenue has always been a vital source of support for our papers, and we are deeply grateful to the local businesses that continue to support us. But as printing and mailing costs rise to historic levels, advertising alone can no longer carry the full weight of production. We recognize that our small businesses are facing similar pressures, and we would prefer not to raise advertising rates too much. Instead, we’re turning to you — our readers — for help.

This November, we’re launching our annual ‘Support the Newspaper’ campaign. Every donation, no matter the size, helps offset the rising costs of printing and distribution, ensuring that your paper remains free, local, and delivered right to your doorstep or mailbox. Your contribution isn’t just helping to print pages — it’s helping to keep civic engagement alive, preserving our community history, and giving a platform to local voices that deserve to be heard.

We are endlessly thankful for your readership, your trust, and your belief in the value of local journalism. For decades, this paper has been honored to share your stories, celebrate your milestones, and champion the spirit of our towns. With your help, we can continue to do so for many years to come.

Please consider a donation, in any amount. To contribute to our community news, please visit https://bit.ly/SupportTheNewspaper or scan the QR code. Thank you for your support. We have been honored to be a part of your community, and we are excited to continue to bring you the news and stories that matter to you each month.